MudMarine

I've spent considerable time in the middle east, and you will most likely be housed on a secure compound of some sort. Think of it as walled in villas. The previous poster is correct about the average Muslims perception of Christians. They are going to be curious about you but their culture dictates that they show great respect and hospitality towards you and yours. Keep in mind that probably less that 5% are Christian in the country. What they know if Christianity they get from their satellite TV and from word of mouth. Make sure the respect goes both ways and there should not be a problem. I wouldn't expect to be able to take the family to Sunday school and Church however, unless your company has made some sort of arrangements. Churches as you know they just don't exist for the most part. Even if they did, I personally would avoid them because they would attract attention to you and your family. As far as the culture goes, take the time to box your own and learn their's. Its amazing how far you can go if you make it a point to learn a new phrase to use with someone you meet with regularly. It definitely builds good rapport. Learn to try new foods. That lamb brain stew that you thought was impossible starts looking good when your the guest of honor. Try out the new foods slowly. Obviously the locals can handle them, but they will give you GI hell since your body is not ready for them. I would seriously ask what kinds of activities your wife and kids would have access to while you are at work. If you are living on a compound, its going to be limited, unless your wife likes to photograph sunsets and your kids like sandboxes. hahaha Women don't do much driving in Muslim countries for the most part. She's not going to be going to the mall. Make sure you get on a first name basis with a contact at the Embassy to include a good contact number. I will admit I'm a little jaded because I was involved with security work but I will tell you up front that regardless of how liberal Abu-Dhabi/Dubai (which ever one your going to) is, I would not take my wife and kids there to live for all the dinars in the palace. The minute you get yourself into a bad habit, like taking the same route to work everyday, visiting the same market at the same time, the same church, the same restaurant, is the minute bad things start happening. Remember, unless you grow a beard and start wearing a dishdasha you will stand out like a giant among pygmies. Have a plan. Stay Safe Mud